Vanessa Williams gives speech at Guam National Guard

Award-winning singer and actress, Vanessa Williams, tells her story about dealing with adversity during an event for the StayWell Guam Diabetes Foundation at the Guam National Guard Readiness Center in Barrigada on March 15, 2018.
Frank San Nicolas/PDN

Award-winning singer and actress, Vanessa Williams, with Maj. Gen. Roderick R. Leon Guerrero, poses for pictures with a fan during an event for the StayWell Guam Diabetes Foundation at the Guam National Guard Readiness Center in Barrigada on March 15, 2018.(Photo: Frank San Nicolas/PDN)

Williams encouraged the crowd to stay true to themselves because "no one knows you better than yourself."

“The truth is no matter how well we plan, we really have no idea what curve balls will be thrown to us in life. Embracing the unexpected is the key to survival, but so is remembering your self-worth,” Williams stated.

Inspired by Vanessa Williams

Military personnel George Diaz was inspired by the obstacles Williams had to overcome to become a singer and actress.

“I admire the way that she overcame obstacles. It didn’t stop her from succeeding. It’s similar to what we go through here in the military because we face adversities. It’s very inspirational to soldiers,” Diaz said.

Williams told audience members that their circumstances don’t define them, but rather their resolve.

First step to solving diabetes problem

Military personnel Sera Penaflor was also inspired by Williams because Williams took her time to visit Guam and talked about opening the conversation on diabetes that affects many families on island.

“My family and I try to enjoy Guam’s meals, but of course, still try to make sure that we have the adequate fruits and vegetables,” Penaflor said.

Williams urged everyone to talk about diabetes because it is the first step to solving the problem.